Africa-Press – South-Africa. Higher Education, Science, and Innovation minister Blade Nzimande said he is “outraged” and strongly condemns the murder of Mboneli Vesele, who is one of the University of Fort Hare (UFH) Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sakhela Buhlungu’s bodyguards.
Vesele was shot dead on Friday night outside the vice-chancellor’s Alice residence in the Eastern Cape.
Nzimande said at the time of the incident, Buhlungu was not in the car.
“Although investigations are at an early stage, all indications are that the assailant/s were targeting Professor Buhlungu. I outrightly condemn this barbaric murder of Mr Vesele and the attempt on the life of Professor Buhlungu,” Nzimande said.
“[Our] heartfelt condolences to the Vesele family, friends, and the University of Fort Hare,” Nzimande added.
The Professor has since been moved to a safe location.
Nzimande has appealed for calm while investigations are underway.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Thembinkosi Kinana said the vice-chancellor had just arrived home when unidentified occupants in an unknown vehicle opened fire, hitting the driver, who succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Nzimande said he had discussions with the minister of police for the swift investigation and arrest of the assailants.
The minister has directed Higher Health, an agency of the Department responsible for wellness, to work with the University to provide psycho-social support to the Vesele family and to all affected university employees, especially those who have been working very closely with the deceased.
Nzimande said he is currently engaging with all the stakeholders and has written a letter to the University of Fort Hare Council to engage on how best to deal with the situation.
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